SDF's Abdi rejects federalism, seeks integration into Syrian army
3 Min Read
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi rejects federalism in Syria, expresses willingness to join a national army, and calls for a ceasefire while distancing the group from the PKK.
-
US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander-in-chief Mazloum Abdi, speaks during a press conference in Syria’s northeastern city of Hasakeh on December 6, 2024 (AFP)
The commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Mazloum Abdi, denied demands for a federal system in Syria, according to France 24. He stated that his forces seek to be part of a centralized Syrian state without division.
Abdi expressed a desire for the SDF to join a future Syrian national army, if formed, and is ready to discuss this with the new government in Damascus. He noted that the SDF has not yet negotiated with the new leadership in Damascus about Syria's future but is open to doing so.
Abdi welcomed the recent statements from the new Damascus administration, calling them "positive so far," and urged the government to fulfill its duty to implement a ceasefire across Syria.
He also clarified that the SDF is not an extension of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and is prepared to remove non-Syrian fighters once a ceasefire is reached.
Furthermore, Abdi mentioned that the SDF is in contact with the US to pressure Turkey for a ceasefire, highlighting that Turkish-backed factions are advancing near Ain al-Arab in the northern countryside of Aleppo, approaching Manbij and the Euphrates River.
Germany calls for disarmament of Kurdish militants in Syria
Earlier, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock declared, following discussions with her Turkish counterpart in Ankara, that Kurdish militants in Syria must disarm and integrate into the country’s newly formed government security forces.
Speaking at a press conference, Baerbock underscored that ensuring the safety of Kurdish communities is crucial for achieving a free and stable Syria. At the same time, she acknowledged Turkiye’s security concerns, emphasizing the need to address them to maintain regional stability.
Turkiye views the Kurdish People's Defense Units (YPG) in Syria, which has long cooperated with US forces, as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group designated as a terrorist organization by Ankara, Washington, and the EU.
Turkish forces and their Syrian allies have engaged in clashes with the YPG since the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime earlier this month.
The top German diplomat emphasized that "security, especially for Kurds, is essential for a free and secure future for Syria," cautioning against the risks of further escalation with Kurdish forces.
Earlier: SDF chief says to establish demilitarized zone in Ain al-Arab
